South Africa reaffirmed its leadership role on the global stage as it hosted the second G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Durban, with Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille opening the session. As the only African country in the G20, South Africa is determined to ensure the continent’s priorities are not sidelined in global tourism policy discussions.
“Our role is not just national — it is continental,” said Minister de Lille. “We are here to align global strategies with Africa’s vision, particularly Agenda 2063.”
The meeting focused on setting the groundwork for the upcoming G20 tourism ministers’ gathering in Mpumalanga this September and the heads of state summit in Johannesburg in November. These high-level engagements are expected to deliver critical policy outcomes on sustainable tourism, resilience, and economic inclusion.
South Africa unveiled four core priorities for 2025 in its Tourism Strategy Note: leveraging AI and people-centered innovation, boosting tourism SMEs, strengthening financial partnerships, and improving air connectivity. These themes are aimed at unlocking growth in the sector while addressing broader developmental challenges.
To support these goals, the country plans to host an investment workshop and publish a report addressing key issues in air route development, a persistent barrier to intra-African and international tourism growth.
UN Tourism has provided essential support, acting as a knowledge partner in the development of South Africa’s agenda. Their collaboration has helped ensure alignment with global best practices and enhanced the strategic impact of South Africa’s proposals.
As the world eyes the future of sustainable tourism, South Africa is positioning itself — and Africa — at the heart of the conversation. Through thoughtful leadership and a focus on inclusivity, the country is working to ensure that the benefits of global tourism extend well beyond traditional power centers.
